Welcome Pass Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
963 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The hike to Welcome Pass on High Divide Trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes too numerous to count. This hike is rated as hard, with a solid dose of elevation gain to pack in over its moderate mileage. This is the most direct way to reach Welcome Pass. Those who want to tack on a stop by Excelsior Pass on a longer approach can try the Welcome Pass via High Divide Trail.

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Route Description for Welcome Pass Hike

Welcome Pass boasts an amazing view of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. This is a straight-up venture with a lot of elevation gain for the distance. Bring poles and be prepared for a big climb! This trail doesn’t get very busy, though, so you’ll have a good chance of enjoying a bit of solitude.

If you drive to the road maintenance building, you missed the trailhead- it’s not signed. Additionally, definitely bring a good bug spray as this route is plagued by flies.

From the trailhead, you’ll have just a few feet of warm-up before the climbing begins, first with a long eastward traverse and then with lots of switchbacks. It’s steep, it’s tiring, but it’s worth it. Grind through the switchbacks into the meadows, where the views really open up and you’ll be able to catch your breath. From the pass, you can either explore the ridge a little or head directly back down to the trailhead.

Getting to the Welcome Pass Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Welcome Pass hike is on Mount Baker Highway.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    June-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Welcome Pass Hike Elevation Graph

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